Selectively flexible extension tool

ABSTRACT

A tool assembly includes a first selectively flexible tool including a first plurality of sequentially arranged links moveable between a slacked position and a tensioned position; and a second selectively flexible tool including a second plurality of sequentially arranged links moveable between a slacked position and a tensioned position, the second plurality of sequentially arranged links moveable over or through the first plurality of sequentially arranged links.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Non-Provisional application claiming the benefitof priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application No.62/745,727, filed Oct. 15, 2018, which is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety.

FIELD

The present subject matter relates generally to a selectively flexibleextension tool and a method for using the same.

BACKGROUND

Robotic arm assemblies are useful throughout various industries forperforming operations at, e.g., remote locations, hazardous locations,etc. At least certain robotic arm assemblies include a robotic armformed of a plurality of links joined together at respective joints.Additionally, a plurality of control wires may extend through therobotic arm, with each wire terminating at an individual link for movingsuch link relative to an aft-adjacent link. The control wires may becoupled to one or more motors within a base of the robotic arm assembly,such that the robotic arm assembly may control a movement of the roboticarm by increasing and/or decreasing tension on the plurality of controlwires.

In such a manner, robotic arms may be useful in reaching out-of-sightlocations within various environments. However, robotic arms maygenerally be cost prohibitive and/or more complicated than desired forcertain applications. Accordingly, a tool that may allow for a user toreach remote locations within an environment in a more cost efficientmanner would be useful.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in thefollowing description, or may be obvious from the description, or may belearned through practice of the invention.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a tool assembly isprovided. The tool assembly includes a first selectively flexible toolincluding a first plurality of sequentially arranged links moveablebetween a slacked position and a tensioned position; and a secondselectively flexible tool including a second plurality of sequentiallyarranged links moveable between a slacked position and a tensionedposition, the second plurality of sequentially arranged links moveableover or through the first plurality of sequentially arranged links.

In certain exemplary embodiments the first selectively flexible tooldefines a first outer diameter, wherein the second plurality ofsequentially arranged links of the second selectively flexible tooldefine a second hollow tube defining a second inner diameter, whereinthe first outer diameter of the first selectively flexible tool is lessthan the second inner diameter of the second hollow tube of the secondplurality of sequentially arranged links such that the second pluralityof sequentially arranged links of the second selectively flexible toolare moveable over the first plurality of sequentially arranged links ofthe first selectively flexible tool.

In certain exemplary embodiments the first plurality of sequentiallyarranged links of the first selectively flexible tool are spaced fromone another when in the slacked position to allow the plurality ofsequentially arranged links to pivotably move relative to one another,and wherein the plurality of sequentially arranged links are pressedagainst one another when in the tensioned position to rigidly fix thefirst plurality of sequentially arranged links to one another.

In certain exemplary embodiments the first selectively flexible toolfurther includes a line operable with the first plurality ofsequentially arranged links to move the first plurality of sequentiallyarranged links between a slacked position and a tensioned position.

In certain exemplary embodiments the second plurality of sequentiallyarranged links of the second selectively flexible tool includes aplurality of joint members and a plurality of link members, wherein eachjoint member is positioned between adjacent link members.

For example, in certain exemplary embodiments each of the plurality ofjoint members defines a first longitudinal opening, wherein each of theplurality of link members defines a second longitudinal opening, andwherein the second selectively flexible tool further includes a lineassembly extending through the first longitudinal opening of each jointmember of the plurality of joint members and further extending throughthe second longitudinal opening of each link member of the plurality oflink members.

For example, in certain other exemplary embodiments the firstlongitudinal opening of each joint member extends through a joint membercenterline of the respective joint member, and wherein the secondlongitudinal opening of each link member extends through a link membercenterline of the respective link member.

For example, in certain other exemplary embodiments each of theplurality of joint members extends between a first end and a second end,and wherein the first end and second end of each joint member defines aconvex surface.

For example, in certain other exemplary embodiments each link member ofthe plurality of link members extends between a first end and a secondend, and wherein the first end and second end of each link memberdefines a concave opening mateable with a convex surface of an adjacentjoint member.

For example, in certain other exemplary embodiments each of theplurality of joint members defines a substantially spherical shape, andwherein each of the plurality of link members defines a substantiallycylindrical shape.

In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a method foroperating a tool assembly within an environment is provided. The methodincludes inserting a first selectively flexible tool into theenvironment while the first selectively flexible tool is in a slackedposition; moving the first selectively flexible tool to a tensionedposition; positioning a second selectively flexible tool at leastpartially over or through the first selectively flexible tool while thesecond selectively flexible tool is in a slacked position; and movingthe second selectively flexible tool to a tensioned position.

In certain exemplary aspects inserting the first selectively flexibletool into the environment includes inserting a first plurality of linksof the first selectively flexible tool while the first plurality oflinks is in a slacked position, and wherein moving the first selectivelyflexible tool to the tensioned position includes moving the firstplurality of links of the first selectively flexible tool to a tensionedposition.

For example, in certain exemplary aspects the first plurality of linksof the first selectively flexible tool define a hollow tube extendingtherethrough when in the tensioned position, and wherein positioning thesecond selectively flexible tool at least partially over or through thefirst selectively flexible tool includes positioning the secondselectively flexible tool at least partially through the hollow tube ofthe first plurality of links of the first selectively flexible tool.

In certain exemplary aspects positioning the second selectively flexibletool at least partially over or through the first selectively flexibletool while the second selectively flexible tool is in the slackedposition includes positioning a distal end of the second selectivelyflexible tool proximate a distal end of the first selectively flexibletool.

In certain exemplary aspects positioning the second selectively flexibletool at least partially over or through the first selectively flexibletool while the second selectively flexible tool is in the slackedposition includes positioning the second selectively flexible tool atleast partially over the first selectively flexible tool.

In certain exemplary aspects the method further includes moving thefirst selectively flexible tool to slacked position subsequent to movingthe second selectively flexible tool to the tensioned position; andremoving the first selectively flexible tool from the environment.

For example, in certain exemplary aspects the method further includespositioning a third selectively flexible tool at least partially over orthrough the second selectively flexible tool while the third selectivelyflexible tool is in a slacked position; and moving the third selectivelyflexible tool to a tensioned position.

For example, in certain other exemplary aspects the method furtherincludes moving the second selectively flexible tool to the slackedposition subsequent to moving the third selectively flexible tool to thetensioned position; and removing the second selectively flexible toolfrom the environment.

For example, in certain exemplary aspects the first selectively flexibletool defines a first outer diameter, wherein the third selectivelyflexible tool defines a third outer diameter, and wherein the thirdouter diameter is substantially equal to the first outer diameter.

For example, in certain other exemplary aspects the second selectivelyflexible tool defines a hollow tube defining a second inner diameter,and wherein the second inner diameter is greater than the first outerdiameter and the third outer diameter.

For example, in certain other exemplary aspects the first selectivelyflexible tool defines a first hollow tube defining a first innerdiameter, wherein the third selectively flexible tool defines a thirdhollow tube defining a third inner diameter, and wherein the third innerdiameter is substantially equal to the first inner diameter.

For example, in certain other exemplary aspects the second selectivelyflexible tool defines a second outer diameter, and wherein the secondouter diameter is less than the first inner diameter and the third innerdiameter.

In certain exemplary aspects the first selectively flexible toolincludes a first plurality of sequentially arranged links movablebetween a slacked position when the first selectively flexible tool asin the slacked position and a tensioned position when the firstselectively flexible tool is in the tensioned position.

For example, in certain exemplary aspects the second selectivelyflexible tool includes a second plurality of sequentially arranged linksmovable between a slacked position when the second selectively flexibletool is in the slacked position and a tensioned position when the secondselectively flexible tool is in the tensioned position.

For example, in certain exemplary aspects the second selectivelyflexible tool includes a plurality of joint members, a plurality of linkmembers, and a line assembly, wherein each joint member is positionedbetween adjacent link members and defines a first longitudinal opening,wherein each of the plurality of link members defines a secondlongitudinal opening, and wherein the line assembly extends through thefirst longitudinal opening of each joint member of the plurality ofjoint members and further extends through the second longitudinalopening of each link member of the plurality of link members.

For example, in certain exemplary aspects the environment is an interiorof a gas turbine engine.

For example, in certain other exemplary aspects inserting the firstselectively flexible tool into the environment while the firstselectively flexible tool is in the slacked position includes insertingthe first selectively flexible tool into the gas turbine engine throughan opening in the gas turbine engine.

For example, in certain other exemplary aspects the opening is aborescope opening. These and other features, aspects and advantages ofthe present invention will become better understood with reference tothe following description and appended claims. The accompanyingdrawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of thisspecification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, togetherwith the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including thebest mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is setforth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended Figs.,in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an extension tool in accordance with anexemplary embodiment of the present disclosure in a slacked position.

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the exemplary extension tool of FIG. 1 ina tensioned position.

FIG. 3 is a schematic, cross sectional view of an extension tool inaccordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a schematic, close-up view of an extension tool in accordancewith yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 is an end view of a first link of the exemplary extension tool ofFIG. 4 .

FIG. 6 is an end view of a second link of the exemplary extension toolof FIG. 4 .

FIG. 7 is a close-up view of a plurality of links of an extension toolin accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is another view of the exemplary plurality of links of FIG. 7 .

FIG. 9 is a schematic, close-up view of an extension tool in accordancewith yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 is a schematic, close-up view of an extension tool in accordancewith still another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a schematic, close-up view of an extension tool in accordancewith yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a schematic, close-up view of an extension tool in accordancewith still another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of an extension tool inaccordance with the present disclosure including multiple pluralities oflinks, arranged in a retracted position.

FIG. 14 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of the extension tool ofFIG. 13 with the multiple pluralities of links arranged in an extendedposition.

FIG. 15 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of an extension tool inaccordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure includingmultiply pluralities of links.

FIG. 16A is a schematic view of a tool assembly in accordance with anexemplary embodiment of the present disclosure in a first position.

FIG. 16B is a schematic view of the exemplary tool assembly of FIG. 16Ain a second position.

FIG. 16C is a schematic view of the exemplary tool assembly of FIG. 16Ain a third position.

FIG. 16D is a schematic view of the exemplary tool assembly of FIG. 16Ain a fourth position.

FIG. 16E is a schematic view of the exemplary tool assembly of FIG. 16Ain a fifth position.

FIG. 17 is a schematic view of a selectively flexible tool in accordancewith still another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure in aslacked position.

FIG. 18 is a schematic view of the exemplary selectively flexible toolof FIG. 17 in a tensioned position.

FIG. 19A is a schematic view of a tool assembly in accordance with anexemplary embodiment of the present disclosure in a first position.

FIG. 19B is a schematic view of the exemplary tool assembly of FIG. 19Ain a second position.

FIG. 19C is a schematic view of the exemplary tool assembly of FIG. 19Ain a third position.

FIG. 19D is a schematic view of the exemplary tool assembly of FIG. 19Ain a fourth position.

FIG. 19E is a schematic view of the exemplary tool assembly of FIG. 19Ain a fifth position.

FIG. 19F is a schematic view of the exemplary tool assembly of FIG. 19Ain a sixth position.

FIG. 19G is a schematic view of the exemplary tool assembly of FIG. 19Ain a seventh position.

FIG. 19H is a schematic view of the exemplary tool assembly of FIG. 19Ain a eighth position.

FIG. 19I is a schematic view of the exemplary tool assembly of FIG. 19Ain a ninth position.

FIG. 20 is a schematic view of a gas turbine engine and extension toolin accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 21 is a flow diagram of a method for operating an extension tool inaccordance with an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 22 is a flow diagram of a method for operating a tool assembly inaccordance with an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to present embodiments of theinvention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in theaccompanying drawings. The detailed description uses numerical andletter designations to refer to features in the drawings. Like orsimilar designations in the drawings and description have been used torefer to like or similar parts of the invention.

As used herein, the terms “first”, “second”, and “third” may be usedinterchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are notintended to signify location or importance of the individual components.

The terms “forward” and “aft” refer to relative positions of a componentor system, and refer to the normal operational attitude of the componentor system. For example, with regard to an extension tool in accordancewith one or more the present embodiments, forward refers to a positioncloser to a distal end of the extension tool and aft refers to aposition closer to a root end of the extension tool.

The terms “coupled,” “fixed,” “attached to,” and the like refer to bothdirect coupling, fixing, or attaching, as well as indirect coupling,fixing, or attaching through one or more intermediate components orfeatures, unless otherwise specified herein.

The singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural references unlessthe context clearly dictates otherwise.

Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification andclaims, is applied to modify any quantitative representation that couldpermissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function towhich it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms,such as “about”, “approximately”, and “substantially”, are not to belimited to the precise value specified. In at least some instances, theapproximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrumentfor measuring the value, or the precision of the methods or machines forconstructing or manufacturing the components and/or systems. Forexample, the approximating language may refer to being within a 10percent margin.

Here and throughout the specification and claims, range limitations arecombined and interchanged, such ranges are identified and include allthe sub-ranges contained therein unless context or language indicatesotherwise. For example, all ranges disclosed herein are inclusive of theendpoints, and the endpoints are independently combinable with eachother.

Referring now to the drawings, wherein identical numerals indicate thesame elements throughout the Figs., FIG. 1 is a schematic view of aselectively flexible extension tool 100 (or simply “extension tool”) inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure in aslacked position; and FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the exemplaryextension tool 100 of FIG. 1 in a tensioned position.

The extension tool 100 generally includes a base 102, a line assembly104, and a plurality of sequentially arranged links 106. The base 102generally includes a first plate 108, a second plate 110, and one ormore extension guides 112. For the embodiment depicted, the one or moreextension guides 112 includes a pair of extension guides 112 fixedlycoupled to the first plate 108 and extending in a lengthwise directionLW. The second plate 110 of the base 102 includes openings 114corresponding to the pair of extension guides 112, such that the secondplate 110 is slidable along the extension guides 112 in the lengthwisedirection LW away from the first plate 108 and towards the first plate108.

The line assembly 104 generally includes a root 116 coupled to thesecond plate 110 of the base 102 and a plurality of lines 188 extendingfrom the root 116. The plurality of lines 118 includes a first line118A, and the first line 118A (along with the rest of the lines 118 forthe embodiment shown) is operable with the plurality of sequentiallyarranged links 106 to move the plurality of sequentially arranged links106 between the slacked position (FIG. 1 ) and the tensioned position(FIG. 2 ). As will be explained in greater detail below, the pluralityof sequentially arranged links 106 are spaced from one another when inthe slacked position to allow the plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks 106 to pivotably move relative to one another. By contrast, theplurality of sequentially arranged links 106 are pressed against oneanother when in the tensioned position to rigidly fix the plurality ofsequentially arranged links 106 to one another.

As noted, for the embodiment shown, each of the plurality of lines 118is operable with the plurality of sequentially arranged links 106 tomove the plurality of sequentially arranged links 106 between theslacked position and the tensioned position. It will be appreciated thateach of these lines 118 may be configured as cables, ropes, threads,etc. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the lines 118 aregenerally flexible (i.e., will not prevent the plurality of sequentiallyarranged links 106 from pivotably moving relative to one another in theslacked position).

Briefly, for the embodiment depicted, it will be appreciated that theextension tool 100 depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2 is a tool member includinga tool implement 120 coupled to one of the plurality of links 106. Morespecifically, the extension tool 100 defines a distal end 122, and thetool implement 120 is coupled to the link 106 at the distal end 122. Forthe embodiment shown, the tool implement 120 includes one or moresensors, cameras, or both, and more specifically includes a sensor 124.The one or more sensors, cameras, or both may be operably coupled to acontroller or other device (not shown) through one or more electriclines extending through the plurality of sequentially arranged links 106(e.g., in a manner similar to lines 118, or alternatively through a tube126 of the plurality of links 106; see, e.g., FIG. 3 ), oralternatively, through a wireless communication network.

However, in other embodiments, the extension tool 100 may be configuredin other suitable manner. For example, referring to FIG. 3 , aschematic, partially cross-sectional view of an extension tool 100 inaccordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosureis depicted. Specifically, the exemplary extension tool 100 depicted inFIG. 3 is configured as a guide tube. In such a manner, the plurality ofsequentially arranged links 106 of the extension tool 100 togetherdefine a hollow tube 126 extending therethrough. For the embodimentshown, a separate drill 128 is depicted extending through the hollowtube 126 of the extension tool 100. The drill 128 is, for the embodimentshown, a handheld drill including a handle 130 for rotating the drill128, a flexible driveshaft 132 extending through the hollow tube 126defined by the plurality of links 106, and a drill bit 134. Notably,instead of the drill bit being configured as a drill bit for removingmaterial/drilling a hole, in other embodiments, the drill bit 134 may beconfigured as any other suitable rotatable implement, such as a Phillipshead screwdriver bit, a flathead screwdriver bit, a Torx bit, Allen bit,Pozidrive, etc.

In such a manner, the extension tool 100 may facilitate directing thedrill bit 134 of the drill 128 at a remote location, or along an obscurevector within an environment (e.g., along a non-linear path within theenvironment) in a manner that would otherwise not be possible.

It will further be appreciated, however, that in other embodiments, thetool implement 120 may be integrated with the extension tool 100. Forexample, as is depicted in phantom, the flexible driveshaft of the drill128 may instead be coupled to a motor 136 attached to the base 102, orrather, attached to the second plate 110 of the base 102. In such amanner, the extension tool 100 may be an integrally formed drill toolhaving a specific/dedicated function.

Further, in still other embodiments, the extension tool 100 may not beused for, e.g., drilling at a remote location, and instead may beutilized to provide a fluid (e.g., a gas or liquid) to a remotelocation. For example, the hollow tube 126 may be used to provide aheated gas or liquid to a remote location, may be used to providelubrication oil to a remote location, etc.

Referring now to FIG. 4 , operation of an extension tool 100 inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure willbe described in greater detail. FIG. 4 provides a close-up, schematicview of a distal end 122 of an extension tool 100 in accordance with anexemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The extension tool 100of FIG. 4 may be configured in substantially the same manner asexemplary extension tool 100 of FIG. 1 . Notably, the extension tool 100of FIG. 4 is depicted in the slacked position.

Briefly, referring to FIG. 4 , it will be appreciated that the lines 118extend down a length of the extension tool 100 and then loop around toextend back the other way along the length of the extension tool 100 at,for the embodiment depicted, the distal end 151. Although not depicted,in at least certain exemplary embodiments, one or more of the lines 118may include a crimp or other attachment at the distal end 151 (orproximate thereto). The crimp or other attachment may not be under loadduring normal operation, and instead may be configured to prevent theentire line 118 from pulling out of the plurality of links 106 in theevent that the line fails (e.g., breaks or snaps) during operation. Insuch a case, the crimp or other attachment would be engaged such thatthe line could be used to pull the plurality of links 106 out of theenvironment.

Further, as will be appreciated, the plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks 106 of the extension tool 100 includes a first link 106A extendingbetween a forward end 140 and an aft end 142 along a first lengthwisedirection L1. The plurality of sequentially arranged links 106 furtherincludes a second link 106B also extending between a forward end 140 andan aft end 142 along a second lengthwise direction L2. The forward end140 of the first link 106A defines a first interface geometry, and theaft end 142 of the second link 106B defines a second interface geometrycomplementary to the first interface geometry. It will be appreciated,that as used herein, the term “complementary” with reference to twogeometries refers to the two geometries having components configured tofit together to limit movement of the components including thegeometries. Briefly, it will also be appreciated that for the embodimentshown, the aft end 142 of the first link 106A defines an interfacegeometry substantially equal to the second interface geometry, andfurther, the forward end 140 of the second link 106B defines aninterface geometry substantially equal to the first interface geometry.However, in other embodiments, different complementary geometries may beprovided between other adjacent links.

More specifically, referring now also to FIGS. 5 and 6 , providing planviews of the first interface geometry of the forward end 140 of thefirst link 106A (FIG. 5 ) and the second interface geometry of the aftend 142 of the second link 106B (FIG. 6 ), it will be appreciated thatthe first interface geometry and second interface geometry together forma kinematic mount between the first link 106A and second link 106B (whenin the tensioned position) that restricts relative movement between thefirst link 106A and second link 106B along at least four degrees offreedom (e.g., opposing circumferential and radial directions; the lines118 restrict along the longitudinal directions/axial directions, as isexplained below). For example, for the embodiment shown the firstinterface geometry, or rather the first link 106A, defines a firstcircumferential direction C1 and includes at least two indentions 144spaced along the first circumferential direction C1. Similarly, thesecond interface geometry defines a second circumferential direction C2includes at least two extension members 146 corresponding in shape tothe least two indentions 144. More specifically, the at least twoindentions 144 of the first interface geometry includes three indentions144 spaced along the first circumferential direction C1 of the firstinterface geometry, and the at least two extension members 146 of thesecond interface geometry includes three corresponding extension members146 spaced along the second circumferential direction C2 of the secondinterface geometry. When in the tensioned position, each of the threeextension members 146 of the second interface geometry are receivedwithin/rest within the three indentions 144 of the first interfacegeometry to restrict movement of the second link 106B relative to thefirst link 106A in all degrees of freedom (with the help of the lines118; see, e.g., FIG. 2 ).

It will be appreciated, however, that in other embodiments, any othersuitable kinematic mounting geometries may be provided between adjacentlinks 106 to restrict movement of the adjacent links 106 when the links106 are in the tensioned position. For example, in other embodiments,the first and/or second geometry may include pins, ridges, etc., and theother of the first and/or second geometry may include correspondingopenings, valleys, etc.

Referring still to FIGS. 5 and 6 , briefly it will be appreciated thateach of the plurality of links 106, and accordingly the hollow tube 126defined thereby, defines an inner diameter 127. The term “innerdiameter” may refer to the smallest crosswise measure of the hollow tube126. The inner diameter 127 may dictate the size of tools or othercomponents that may extend through the hollow tube 126. Briefly, theextension tool 100, or rather the plurality of links 106 further definean outer diameter 129, which may refer to the largest crosswise measureof the plurality of links 106 of the extension tool 100.

Referring particularly to FIG. 4 , and as is noted above, the first line118A, or rather, the plurality of lines 118, of the line assembly 104 isoperable with the plurality of links 106 to move the plurality of links106 between the slacked position (shown) and the tensioned position.Specifically with reference to the first link 106A and the second link106B, the plurality of lines 118 (including the first line 118A) areslidable relative to at least the first link 106A to move the pluralityof sequentially arranged links 106 between the slacked position and thetensioned position. More specifically, still, referring again briefly toFIGS. 5 and 6 , each of the plurality of links 106 includes acircumferential wall 148, and the first line 118A of the line assembly104 extends through the circumferential wall 148 of each of theplurality of links 106. More particularly, as may be clearly seen inFIGS. 5 and 6 , for the embodiment shown each link 106 of the pluralityof links 106 defines a lengthwise opening 150 in the circumferentialwall 148, with the first line 118A of the line assembly 104 slidablyreceived through the lengthwise opening 150 of the circumferential wall148 of each link 106 of the plurality of links 106. Further for theembodiment shown, each of the plurality of lines 118 of the lineassembly 104 are slidably received through corresponding lengthwiseopenings 150 in the circumferential walls 148 of the plurality of links106. Notably, however, in other embodiments, one or more of theplurality of lines 118 of the line assembly 104 may instead be slidablycoupled to the links 106 in any other suitable manner (e.g., througheyelets on the outer surface of the links 106, inner surfaces of thecircumferential walls 148, etc.).

Moreover, for the embodiment shown, the extension tool 100 includes acap 151 positioned at the distal end 122 and coupled to the link 106 atthe distal end 122. The lines 118 are looped through a suitable channelin the cap 151 (i.e., not slidable relative to the cap 151), such thatwhen the lines 118 are tensioned, the links 106 are moved to thetensioned position. (However, in other embodiments, one or more of thelines 118 may be fixed to the cap 151.) As will be appreciated, FIG. 4depicts the first link 106A and the second link 106B in the slackedposition. The second link 106B is spaced from the first link 106A whenthe plurality of links 106 are in the slacked position to allow thesecond link 106B to pivotably move relative to the first link 106A(e.g., in a pivot direction P). For example, as is shown, when in theslacked position, the second link 106B is connected to the first link106A only through the plurality of lines 118 of the line assembly 104.Given that the plurality of lines 118 may be relatively flexible, thesecond link 106B may pivot relative to the first link 106A. Moreparticularly, the second link 106B may move relative to the first link106A such that an angle defined between the second lengthwise directionL2 and the first lengthwise direction L1 varies, e.g., at least aboutthirty degrees, such as at least about sixty degrees, such as at leastabout ninety degrees, such as up to about three hundred degrees. In sucha manner, the extension tool 100 may be maneuvered through, e.g., aserpentine path, or other non-linear path, within an environment whenthe plurality of links 106 are in the slacked position.

By contrast, referring still to the first link 106A and second link 106Bof the plurality of links 106, the second link 106B is pressed againstthe first link 106A when the plurality of links 106 are in the tensionedposition to press the second interface geometry of the aft end 142 ofthe second link 106B against the first interface geometry of the forwardend 140 of the second link 106B and rigidly fix the second link 106B tothe first link 106A. In such a manner, it will be appreciated that whenthe plurality of links 106 are in the tensioned position, the pluralityof links 106 form an effectively solid/rigid arm of the extension tool100.

To illustrate this point further, reference is made back briefly toFIGS. 1 and 2 . As will be appreciated from the embodiment showntherein, the plurality of links 106 of the extension tool 100 may bemoved from the slacked position (FIG. 1 ) to the tensioned position(FIG. 2 ) by tensioning the plurality of lines 118 of the line assembly104, and more specifically, by moving the second plate 110 of the base102 along the extension guides 112 of the base 102 away from the firstplate 108, pulling the plurality of lines 118 of the line assembly 104at the root 116. Notably, the lines 118 may be slidably coupled to eachof the plurality of links 106, with the exception of the link 106 at thedistal end 122 (or rather the cap 151, as noted above). The lines 118may be fixed to the link 106 and/or cap 151 at the distal end 122, suchthat when the plurality of lines 118 are tensioned, the links 106 areeach pressed together to rigidize the links 106/move the links to thetensioned position.

Referring further to FIGS. 1 and 2 , it will be appreciated that bydesigning the links to have a particular geometry and/or orientation,the plurality of links 106 may form a desired shape when in thetensioned position. In such a manner, as briefly noted above, theplurality of links 106 in the slacked position may be threaded through,e.g., a relatively serpentine or other non-linear path within anenvironment, and then may be moved to the tensioned position using theplurality of lines 118 of line assembly 104 once inserted to effectivelyresult in a rigid tool within the nonlinear path of the environment. Insuch a manner, the extension tool 100 may facilitate performingoperations or inspections on components within an environment that wouldotherwise be unreachable, or unreachable without taking apart,dismantling, or damaging the environment.

For the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2 , as well as FIG. 4 , it will beappreciated that each of the plurality of links 106 are specificallydesigned to result in a specific rigidized shape when the plurality oflinks 106 are moved to the tensioned position. For example, withreference particularly to FIG. 4 , the first link 106A defines a firstgeometry (i.e., length, curvature, etc.) and the second link 106Bdefines a second geometry (i.e., link, curvature, etc.). The firstgeometry is different than the second geometry. In at least certainexemplary embodiments, in order to form the plurality of links 106having specific geometries to facilitate a desired and shape of theplurality of links 106, each of the plurality of links 106 may be formedthrough an additive manufacturing process (sometimes also referred to as3D printing). Such may facilitate the formation of specifically shapedlinks 106 to be fitted within the plurality of links 106 of an extensiontool 100 resulting in a desired shape when moved to the tensionedposition, yet still remaining flexible enough to fit through theanticipated environment.

It will be appreciated, however, that in other embodiments, theplurality of links 106 of the extension tool 100 may be formed in anyother suitable manner and may have any other suitable shape orconfiguration. For example, referring now to FIGS. 7 and 8 a pluralityof links 106 of an extension tool 100 in accordance with anotherembodiment of the present disclosure is depicted. The plurality of links106 of the extension tool 100 of FIGS. 7 and 8 may be configured in asimilar manner to the exemplary plurality of links 106 described abovewith reference to, e.g., FIGS. 4 through 6 . For example, the exemplaryplurality of links 106 described in FIGS. 7 and 8 includes a first link106A and a second link 106B (see FIG. 7 ). The first link 106A defines afirst geometry and the second link 106B defines a second geometry.However, for the embodiment of FIGS. 7 and 8 , the first geometry andthe second geometry are substantially the same.

More specifically, each link of the plurality of links 106 of FIGS. 7and 8 generally defines a longitudinal direction L3 and acircumferential direction C3 (see FIG. 7 ). Each link 106 generallyincludes a short side 152 at a first circumferential position along thecircumferential direction C3 and a long side 154 at a secondcircumferential position along the circumferential direction C3 (theshort side 152 defining a length along the longitudinal direction L3less than a length of the long side 154 along the longitudinal directionL3). Further, each link 106 of the plurality of links 106 includes auniform first interface geometry at a forward end 140 along thelongitudinal direction and a uniform second interface geometry at an aftend 142 along the longitudinal direction. The first interface geometryincludes three extension members 146 spaced evenly along thecircumferential direction C3, and the second interface geometry includesthree correspondingly shaped indentions 144 also spaced evenly along thecircumferential direction C3 (i.e., for receiving the three extensionmembers 146 of an adjacent link 106).

In such a manner, the plurality of uniform links 106 may be arranged todefine just about any desired shape when the plurality of links 106 aremoved to the tensioned position. For example, referring particularlyFIG. 8 , it will be appreciated that by pairing the short side 152 ofone link 106 with the long side 154 of an adjacent link 106 sequentiallymay allow for forming a substantially linear portion (e.g., straightportion 156), pairing the short side 152 of one link 106 with the shortside 152 of an adjacent link 106 sequentially may allow for forming arelatively tight bend (e.g., bend 158), etc. In such a manner, bychanging a relative orientation (e.g., circumferentially) of adjacentlinks 106, the plurality of links 106 may define any desiredthree-dimensional shape when tensioned. Further, it will be appreciatedthat by utilizing uniform geometry links 106, the uniform geometry links106 may be stored in bulk on-site, and a specialized extension tool 100defining a unique three-dimensional shape and length may be formedrelatively quickly by arranging sequential links 106 in a particularmanner/circumferential orientation.

As discussed above, when the plurality of links 106 are in the slackedposition, adjacent links 106 may be able to pivot relative to oneanother to allow the plurality of links 106 to maneuver throughnonlinear paths through an environment. When gravity is assisting withmaintaining the plurality of links 106 separate from one another, it maybe relatively easy to maneuver the plurality of links 106 through thenonlinear path. However, in certain embodiments, other features may beprovided for maintaining the plurality of links 106 separate from oneanother to facilitate the maneuverability of the plurality of links 106through a nonlinear path.

More specifically, referring generally to FIGS. 9 through 12 variousembodiments of an extension tool 100 including features for maintainingthe plurality of links 106 separate from one another when in the slackedposition are provided. Each of the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 9through 12 , and described below may be configured in substantially thesame manner as one or more of the exemplary extension tools 100described above with reference to, e.g., FIGS. 1 through 8 . Forexample, each of the exemplary extension tools 100 of FIGS. 9 through 12generally includes a plurality of links 106 (including a first link 106Aand a second link 106B) and a line assembly 104 (including a pluralityof lines 118 and particularly a first line 118A). However, for theembodiments of FIGS. 9 through 12 , the extension tool 100 furtherincludes a biasing member 160 operable with the first link 106A and thesecond link 106B for biasing the second link 106B away from the firstlink 106A. However, the plurality of lines 118 of the line assembly 104,including the first line 118A of the line assembly 104, is configured toovercome the biasing member 160 when the plurality of links 106 aremoved to the tensioned position.

Referring particularly to FIG. 9 , it will be appreciated that biasingmember 160 is a spring attached to the first link 106A and attached tothe second link 106B for pressing the second link 106B away from thefirst link 106A. For the embodiment shown, it will be appreciated thateach of the plurality of links 106 includes a circumferential wall 148that defines an outer surface 162 and the biasing member 160/spring ispositioned inward of the outer surface 162 of the circumferential wall148 of the first link 106A and inward of the outer surface 162 of thecircumferential wall 148 of the second link 106B. More specifically, forthe embodiment shown, the biasing member 160/spring is positioned inwardof the circumferential wall 148 of the first link 106A and inward of thecircumferential wall 148 of the second link 106B. For example, thebiasing member 160/spring may be coupled to, or otherwise attached to aninner surface (not shown) of the circumferential walls 148 of the firstlink 106A and the second link 106B.

Moreover, for the embodiment of FIG. 9 , it will be appreciated that theextension tool 100 further includes a plurality of biasing members 160,with each biasing member 160 operable with a pair of adjacent links 160of the plurality of links 106 for biasing the adjacent links 160 awayfrom one another. Notably, when the plurality of links 106 define ahollow tube 126 extending therethrough (e.g., when the extension tool100 is configured as a guide tube; see FIG. 3 ), the springs may beconfigured such that the openings/center of the springs are aligned withthe hollow tube 126 extending through the plurality of links 106 (andnot blocking the hollow tube 126).

Referring now to FIG. 10 , it will be appreciated that the exemplarybiasing member 160 of the extension tool 100 is operable with each ofthe plurality of links 106 for biasing adjacent links 106 away from oneanother. More specifically, for the embodiment depicted, each of theplurality of links 106 defines an outer surface 162 (or rather includesa circumferential wall 148 defining an outer surface 162) and thebiasing member 160 is operable with the outer surface 162 of each of theplurality of links 106. More specifically, still, for the embodimentdepicted in FIG. 10 , the biasing member 160 is a continuous springattached to the outer surface 162 of the first link 106A and the outersurface 162 of the second link 106B, as well as the outer surfaces 162of the other links 106 of the plurality of links 106, for biasing thesecond link 106B away from the first link 106A, as well as the otherlinks 106 away from adjacent links 106. In such a manner, it will beappreciated that the spring defines a substantially constant pitch whereit is attached to the outer surfaces 162 of the links 106, and defines avariable pitch between adjacent links 106, based on e.g., a position ofthe plurality of links 106 in the slacked position or tensionedposition, an angle defined between adjacent links 106, etc.

Referring now to FIG. 11 , however, in other embodiments, any othersuitable biasing member 160 may be provided operable with each of theplurality of links 106 and coupled to the outer surface 162 of each ofthe plurality of links 106. For example, for the embodiment of FIG. 11 ,the biasing member 160 comprises an elastomeric material attached theouter surface 162 of each of the plurality of links 106 and extendingsubstantially continuously along each of the plurality of links 106. Forexample, in certain embodiments, the elastomeric material may be anelastomeric sleeve extending around each of the plurality of links 106and coupled to the outer surface 162 of each of the plurality of links106. However, in other embodiments, the elastomeric material may bediscrete strips extending along the plurality of links 106 coupled tothe outer surface 162 of each of the plurality of links 106, may be aplurality of elastomeric sections extending between adjacent pairs oflinks 106, etc.

Referring now to FIG. 12 , the exemplary extension tool 100 depictedagain includes a plurality of individual biasing members 160. Each ofthe individual biasing members 160 is configured as an elastomericmaterial positioned between adjacent links 106 of the plurality of links106. For example, one of the plurality biasing members 160 is configuredas an elastic member positioned at least partially between the firstlink 106A and the second link 106B. For example, each of the biasingmembers 160 may be configured as discs configured to urge adjacent links106 away from one another, and more specifically, configured to urgeindentions 144 of one link 106 away from corresponding extension members146 in an adjacent link 106.

It will be appreciated however, that the embodiments of FIGS. 9 through12 are provided by way of example only. In other embodiments, any othersuitable biasing member 160 may be provided for urging a first link 106Aaway from a second, adjacent link 106B, or for urging any of theadjacent links 106 away from one another, when in the slacked position,to assist with the insertion and/or removal of the plurality of links106 of the extension tool 100 to and/or from, e.g., a nonlinear pathwithin the environment.

Further, in other embodiments, still other configurations may beprovided. For example, reference will now be made to FIG. 13 , providinga schematic, cross-sectional view of an extension tool 100 in accordancewith another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Theexemplary extension tool 100 of FIG. 13 may be configured in a similarmanner to the exemplary extension tools 100 described above withreference to FIGS. 1 through 12 .

For example, the exemplary extension tool 100 of FIG. 13 generallyincludes a base 102, a line assembly 104, and a plurality ofsequentially arranged links 106. The line assembly 104 includes a firstline 118A operable with the plurality of sequentially arranged links 106to move the plurality of sequentially arranged links 106 between aslacked position and a tensioned position (shown). As will beappreciated from the description above, the plurality of sequentiallyarranged links 106 are spaced from one another when in the slackedposition to allow the plurality of sequentially arranged links 106 topivotably move relative to one another. However, the plurality ofsequentially arranged links 106 are pressed against one another in thetensioned position to rigidly fix the plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks 106 to one another as is depicted.

More specifically, however, for the embodiment of FIG. 13 the pluralityof sequentially arranged links 106 is configured as a first plurality ofsequentially arranged links 106-1 defining a first guide tube 126-1extending therethrough. The extension tool 100 further includes a secondplurality of sequentially arranged links 106-2 movably positioned atleast partially within the first guide tube 126-1 of the first pluralityof sequentially arranged links 106-1. The second plurality ofsequentially arranged links 106-2 similarly defines a second guide tube126-2 extending therethrough. Further, still, for the embodiment shownthe extension tool 100 includes a third plurality of sequentiallyarranged links 106-3 movably positioned at least partially within thesecond guide tube 126-2 of the second plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks 106-2.

In order to operate the second plurality of links 106-2 and thirdplurality of links 106-3, the line assembly 104 further includes asecond line 118B and a third line 118C. The second line 118B is operablewith the second plurality of links 106-2 to move the second plurality oflinks 106-2 between a slacked position (e.g., similar to the slackedposition of the sequentially arranged links 106 of FIG. 1 ) and atensioned position (shown). Similarly, the third line 118C is operablewith the third plurality of links 106-3 to move the third plurality oflinks 106-3 between a slacked position (e.g., similar to the slackedposition of the sequentially arranged links 106 of FIG. 1 ) and atensioned position (shown).

The second plurality of links 106-2 and third plurality of links 106-3are depicted in FIG. 13 in a retracted, nested configuration. When thefirst plurality of links 106-1, second plurality of links 106-2, andthird plurality of links 106-3 are nested within one another and each inthe slacked position, they may move in unison through a first section ofa nonlinear path through an environment. The first plurality of links106-1 may then be independently moved to a tensioned position using thefirst line 118A (or plurality of first lines 118A). The second pluralityof links 106-2 and third plurality of links 106-3 may subsequently beextended from the first guide tube 126-1 through a second portion of anonlinear path through an environment. The second plurality of links106-2 may then be independently be moved to a tensioned position usingthe second line 118B (or plurality of second lines 118B). Finally, thethird plurality of links 106-3 may be extended from the second guidetube 126-2 through a third portion of a non-linear path of anenvironment. The third plurality of links 106-3 may then independentlybe moved to a tensioned position using the third line 118C (or aplurality of third lines 118C).

For example, referring to FIG. 14 , the exemplary extension tool 100 ofFIG. 13 is depicted with the second plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks 106-2 extended from the first guide tube 126-1 of the firstplurality of sequentially arranged links 106-1, and further with thethird plurality of sequentially arranged links 106-3 extended from thesecond guide tube 126-2. As is depicted in FIG. 14 , the first pluralityof links 106-1 has been moved to the tensioned position, and similarly,the second plurality of links 106-2 is also been moved to the tensionedposition. By contrast, the third plurality of links 106-3 is in theslacked position. In such a manner, the third plurality of links may bemaneuvered through a nonlinear path within an environment before alsobeing moved to the tensioned position. As will be appreciated, such aconfiguration may allow for the extension tool 100 to position thesecond plurality of links 106-2 adjacent to, e.g., a nonlinear pathwithin an environment that would otherwise be difficult to reach, orunreachable using a singular plurality of links 106. Similarly, such aconfiguration may allow for the extension tool to position the thirdplurality of links 106-3 adjacent to, e.g., another nonlinear pathwithin the environment that would otherwise be difficult to reach, orunreachable using two pluralities of links.

Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14 , it will be appreciated that the firstplurality of links 106-1 includes a stopper 164 at a distal endextending into the first guide tube 126-1, and the second plurality oflinks 106-2 includes a flange 166 at a forward end configured to catchthe stopper 164 at the distal end of the first plurality of links 106-1and prevent the second plurality of links 106-2 from being removedcompletely from the first guide tube 126-1. Similarly, the secondplurality of links 106-2 includes a stopper 168 at a distal endextending into the second guide tube 126-2, and the third plurality oflinks 106-3 includes a flange 170 at a forward end configured to catchthe stopper 168 at the distal end of the second plurality of links 106-2to prevent the third plurality of links 106-3 from being removedcompletely from the second guide tube 126-2. In certain embodiments, thefirst, second, and third pluralities of sequentially arranged links 106may be extended by a work implement extended through a third guide tube126-3 extending through the third plurality of links 106-3 that catchesa stopper 172 positioned at a distal end of the third plurality of links106-3 extending into the third guide tube 126-3. However, in otherembodiments, any other suitable apparatus may be utilized to selectivelyextend the second plurality of links 106-2 from the first plurality oflinks 106-1, and further to selectively extend the third plurality oflinks 106-3 from the second plurality of links 106-2.

Moreover, it will be appreciated that the exemplary extension tool 100depicted in FIGS. 13 and 14 is provided by way of example only. In otherembodiments, any other suitable extension tool 100 having pluralities ofsequentially arranged links 106 may be provided. For example, althoughthree pluralities of sequentially arranged links 106 are provided inFIGS. 13 and 14 , in other embodiments, the extension tool may have anyother suitable number of pluralities links 106, such as two, four, six,etc. and each of such pluralities of links 106 may define any desiredshape.

Further, although for the embodiment of FIGS. 13 and 14 , each of thepluralities of sequentially arranged links 106 are nested within oneanother (at least when in the retracted position), in other embodiments,any other suitable arrangement of pluralities sequentially arrangedlinks 106 may be provided.

For example, in other embodiments the extension tool 100 may againinclude multiple pluralities of sequentially arranged links 106, but inother suitable configurations. For example, referring now to FIG. 15 ,an extension tool 100 in accordance with another exemplary embodiment ofthe present disclosure is provided. The exemplary extension tool 100 ofFIG. 15 may be configured in a similar manner as the exemplary extensiontool 100 of FIG. 13 . Accordingly, the exemplary extension tool 100 ofFIG. 15 may generally include a first plurality of links 106-1, a secondplurality of links 106-2, and a third plurality of links 106-3.

Notably, for the embodiment depicted, the first plurality of links 106-1includes a forward end 174, the second plurality of links 106-2 includesa forward end 176 and an aft end 178, and the third plurality of links106-3 also includes a forward end 180 and an aft end 182. For theembodiment depicted, the second plurality of links 106-2 is coupled tothe forward end 174 of the first plurality of links 106-1, and further,the third plurality of links 106-3 is coupled to the forward end 176 ofthe second plurality of links 106-2. In such a manner, the firstplurality of links 106-1, second plurality of links 106-2, and thirdplurality of links 106-3 are each arranged in series.

Similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 13 and 14 , for the embodiment ofFIG. 15 , the line assembly 104 further includes a second line 118B anda third line 118C. The second line 118B is operable with the secondplurality of links 106-2 to move the second plurality of links 106-2between a slacked position and a tensioned position. Similarly, thethird line 118C is operable with the third plurality of links 106-3 tomove the third plurality of links 106-3 between a slacked position and atensioned position. Notably, the second line 118B is operable with thesecond plurality of links 106-2 independent of the first line 118A beingoperable with the first plurality of links 106-1, and further, the thirdline 118C is operable with the third plurality of links 106-3independent of the first line 118A and second line 118B being operablewith the first plurality of links 106-1 and second plurality of links106-2, respectively.

Inclusion of multiple pluralities of sequentially arranged links 106 mayallow for insertion of the extension tool 100 into more complexnonlinear paths within the environment.

Further, referring now to FIG. 16 , or rather, FIGS. 16A through 16E, atool assembly 184 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of thepresent disclosure is provided. The tool assembly 184 depicted in FIG.16 may incorporate or otherwise utilize various aspects of one or morethe exemplary embodiments described above with reference to FIGS. 1through 15 .

For example, referring first to FIG. 16A, the exemplary tool assembly184 includes a first selectively flexible extension tool 100A (or simply“extension tool”). Although not depicted individually (i.e., depicted ina simplified schematic manner), it will be appreciated that the firstextension tool 100A may include a first plurality of sequentiallyarranged links 106A movable between a slacked position and a tensionedposition (shown). In such a manner, the first extension tool 100A ofFIG. 16A may be configured in accordance with, e.g., the embodiment ofFIGS. 1 and 2 , the embodiment of FIG. 3 , the embodiment of FIGS. 4through 6 , the embodiment of FIGS. 7 and 8 , or in accordance with anyother suitable embodiment.

Referring still to FIG. 16A, the first extension tool 100A, or rather,the first plurality of sequentially arranged links 106A of the firstextension tool 100A, defines a first hollow tube 126A extendingtherethrough. The first hollow tube 126A defines a first inner diameter127A, which may refer to a minimum crosswise measure of the first hollowtube 126A. Further, the first extension tool 100A defines a first outerdiameter 129A, which may refer to a maximum crosswise measure of thefirst plurality of links 106A of the first extension tool 100A.

In such a manner, it will be appreciated from the view in FIG. 16A thatthe first extension tool 100A may be inserted through an opening 186into an environment in a slacked position, and subsequently moved to atensioned position. In the tensioned position, the first extension tool100A may define a predefined shape such that a first distal end 122A ofthe first extension tool 100A is positioned at a desired location andorientation.

Moreover, referring now also to FIG. 16B, it will be appreciated thatthe tool assembly 184 further includes a second extension tool 100B.Although also depicted in a simplified schematic manner, it will beappreciated that the second extension tool 100B may include a secondplurality of sequentially arranged links 106B movable between a slackedposition and a tensioned position (shown). As will be appreciated fromthe Figs. and the discussion herein, the second plurality ofsequentially arranged links 106B are movable over or through the firstplurality of sequentially arranged links 106A, and more specifically,for the embodiment shown the second plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks 106B of the second extension tool 100B are movable over the firstplurality of sequentially arranged links 106A of the first extensiontool 100A.

More specifically, the second plurality of sequentially arranged links106B defines a second hollow tube 126B extending therethrough when thesecond plurality of sequentially arranged links 106B are in thetensioned position. The second hollow tube 126B defines a second innerdiameter 127B. The first outer diameter 129A of the first plurality ofsequentially arranged links 106A is less than the second inner diameter127B of the second plurality of sequentially arranged links 106B toallow for the second plurality of sequentially arranged links 106B to beprovided over the first plurality of sequentially arranged links 106A.

Accordingly, for example, the second plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks 106B, while in the slacked positioned, may be movable over thefirst plurality of sequentially arranged links 106A while the firstplurality of sequentially arranged links 106A are in the tensionedposition. The second plurality of sequentially arranged links 106B maythen be moved to the tensioned position. In such a manner, thepredetermined shape of the first plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks 106A may ensure the second plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks 106B make it through, e.g., a first section 188A of a nonlinearpath through the environment prior to being inserted through a secondsection 188B of the nonlinear path through the environment (see FIG.16D).

Notably, the second plurality of sequentially arranged links 106B, whenin the tensioned position, define a second overall length (i.e.,centerline length) that is greater than a first overall length (i.e.,centerline length) of the first plurality of sequentially arranged links106A, when in the tensioned position. For example, for the embodimentshown, the second overall length is at least about 25 percent greaterthan the first overall length, such as at least about 50 percent greaterthan the first overall length, such as up to about 1000 percent greaterthan the first overall length. In such a manner, the second plurality ofsequentially arranged links 106B may reach further into the environment,or rather, further along a nonlinear path through the environment.

Briefly, referring now particularly to FIG. 16C, it will be appreciatedthat the first plurality of sequentially arranged links 106A maysubsequently be moved back to the slacked position and removed from theenvironment while the second plurality of sequentially arranged links106B remain in the tensioned position. In such a manner, a second distalend 122B of the second plurality of sequentially arranged links 106B maybe positioned at a desired location and orientation within theenvironment and may remain there without maintaining the first extensiontool 100A in position. In the event that such location and orientationwithin the environment is the desired endpoint, the second plurality ofsequentially arranged links 106B of the second extension tool 100B maybe utilized to perform desired operations (e.g., inspections, repairs,or maintenance operations).

However, it will further be appreciated that in the certain exemplaryembodiments, further extension tools 100 may be utilized to reach moreremote positions and/or orientations within the environment.

Specifically, referring particularly to FIG. 16D, it will be appreciatedthat the exemplary tool assembly 184 further includes a third extensiontool 100C. The third extension tool 100C may be configured insubstantially the same manner as the first extension tool 100A. Forexample, the third extension tool 100C may include a third plurality ofsequentially arranged links 106C defining a third outer diameter 129C.The third outer diameter 129C may be substantially equal to the firstouter diameter 129A. Accordingly, the third outer diameter 129C may beless than the second inner diameter 127B (of the second hollow tube 126Bof the second plurality of sequentially arranged links 106B), such thatthe third plurality of sequentially arranged links 106C may be movablethrough the second hollow tube 126B of the second plurality ofsequentially arranged links 106B when in the slacked position.

Notably, however, for the embodiment shown a third overall length (i.e.,centerline length) of the third plurality of sequentially arranged links106C of the third extension tool 100C (when in the tensioned position)is greater than the second overall length, and further is greater thanthe first overall length. In such a manner, the third extension tool100C may reach further into the environment to position a third distalend 122C further into the environment, or more specifically, furtheralong a nonlinear path through the environment. As will be appreciated,such a configuration may ensure the third plurality of sequentiallyarranged links 106C are able to navigate through a first section 188Aand a second section 188B of the environment prior to being inserted inan unguided manner into a third section 188C of the environment in theslacked position.

Further, referring briefly to FIG. 16E, it will be appreciated that oncethe third plurality of sequentially arranged links 106C of the thirdextension tool 100C are moved to the tensioned position, the secondextension tool 100B may be removed from the environment. The toolassembly 184 of FIG. 16 may therefore allow for various operations to beconducted at the third distal end 122C of the third extension tool 100C.

It will be appreciated, however, that the exemplary tool assembly 184depicted in FIGS. 16A through 16E is by way of example only. Forexample, although the exemplary tool assembly 184 in FIG. 16A through16E include a second extension tool 100B movable over a first extensiontool 100A, in other embodiments, the second extension tool 100B mayinstead be movable through a first hollow tube 126A of the firstextension tool 100A (and a second outer diameter of the second pluralityof links 106B of the second extension tool 100B may be less than thefirst inner diameter 127A). Further, although three extension tools100A, 100B, 100C are depicted, in other embodiments, the tool assembly184 may only include two extension tools, or alternatively, may includeany other suitable number of extension tools (e.g., 4, 5, 6, etc.).

Further, still, although the exemplary tool assembly 184 depicted inFIGS. 16A through 16B is discussed above as including extension tools100 having predetermined shapes when moved to the tensioned position,such as the exemplary extension tools described above with reference toFIGS. 1 through 15 , in other embodiments, one or more of the extensiontools of FIGS. 16A through 16B may have any other suitableconfiguration. For example, in other embodiments, one or more of theextension tools 100 of the tool assembly 184 may not have a predefinedshape when moved to the tensioned position. For example, referring nowto FIGS. 17 and 18 , FIG. 17 depicts a selectively flexible tool (or“extension tool”) 100 in accordance with another exemplary embodiment ofthe present disclosure in a slacked position and FIG. 18 depicts theexemplary extension tool 100 of FIG. 17 in a tensioned position.

The exemplary extension tool 100 of FIGS. 17 and 18 generally includes aplurality of sequentially arranged links 106 movable between the slackedposition (FIG. 17 ) and the tensioned position (FIG. 18 ). Morespecifically, for the embodiment shown, the plurality of sequentiallyarranged links 106 includes a plurality of joint members 190 and aplurality of link members 191. Each joint member 190 is positionedbetween adjacent link members 191. The joint members 190 are configuredto allow the link members 191 to define any suitable orientationrelative to one another while in the slacked position and further toretain a particular shape when moved to the tensioned position. Morespecifically, for the embodiment shown, the joint members 190 eachextend between a first end 192 and a second end 193 along a firstlongitudinal direction L1 (i.e., a longitudinal direction of therespective joint member 190). For the embodiment shown, the first endand the second end 192, 193 of each joint member 190 defines a convexsurface. Similarly, each link member 191 of the plurality of linkmembers 191 extends between a first end 194 and a second end 195 along asecond longitudinal direction L2 (i.e., a longitudinal direction of therespective link member 191). The first end 194 and the second end 195 ofeach link member 191 defines a concave opening 186 mateable with theconvex surface of an adjacent joint member 190. For example, the concaveopening 186 of the first end 194 of a particular link member 191 may bemateable with the convex surface of the second end 193 of an adjacentjoint member 190.

More specifically, for the embodiment shown, the first and second ends192, 193 of the joint members 190 each define a complementary shape tothe first and second ends 194, 195 of each of the link members 191. Forthe embodiment shown, the first and second ends 192, 193 of the jointmembers 190 each define a rounded surface and the first and second ends194, 195 of the link members 191 each define a rounded opening 186. Morespecifically still, each of the plurality of joint members 190 in theembodiment depicted define a substantially spherical shape and each ofthe plurality of link members 191 of the embodiment depicted define asubstantially cylindrical shape.

Moreover, each of the plurality of joint members 190 defines a firstlongitudinal opening 196 and each of the plurality of link members 191defines a second longitudinal opening 197. Notably, for the embodimentshown, the first longitudinal opening 196 of each joint member 190extends through a joint member centerline of the respective joint member190 (which extends along the first longitudinal direction L1 for theembodiment shown), and the second longitudinal opening 197 of each linkmember 191 extends through a link member centerline of the respectivelink member 191 (which extends along the second longitudinal directionL2 for the embodiment shown). However, in other embodiments, the firstand/or second longitudinal openings 196, 197 may be positioned at anyother suitable manner.

Further, it will be appreciated that the extension tool 100 of FIGS. 17and 18 includes a line assembly, and more specifically, includes a line118. The line 118 of the line assembly extends through the firstlongitudinal opening 196 of each joint member 190 of the plurality ofjoint members 190 and further extends through the second longitudinalopening 197 of each link member 191 the plurality of link members 191.The line 118 of the line assembly may be configured to move theplurality of sequentially arranged links 106 between the slackedposition of FIG. 17 and the tensioned position of FIG. 18 by tensioning(e.g., shortening) and pressing the plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks 106 against one another. Notably, it will be appreciated thatwhile the plurality of links 106 may adapt to just about any threedimensional shape when in the slacked position (FIG. 17 ), the pluralityof joint members 190 and/or the plurality of link members 191 define arelatively high coefficient of friction at the joints/where they contactone another. In such a manner, the plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks 106 of the extension tool 100 may define a relatively rigidconfiguration when moved to the tensioned position, such that theyremain in the three dimensional shape they adapted to while in theslacked position.

Accordingly, it will be appreciated that while the exemplary extensiontool 100 of FIGS. 17 and 18 may be utilized in a tool assembly 184 inaccordance with one or more exemplary aspects of the present disclosure,the exemplary extension tool 100 of FIGS. 17 and 18 does not define apredefined shape that it must conform to when moved to the tensionedposition.

Regardless, however, referring now to FIG. 19 , a tool assembly 184 isprovided in accordance with another exemplary embodiment that mayutilize an extension tool that does not define a predefined shape whenin the tensioned position (such as the exemplary extension tool 100 ofFIGS. 17 and 18 ). More specifically, FIGS. 19A through 19I depictedvarious exemplary aspects of the tool assembly 184.

It will be appreciated that the exemplary tool assembly 184 of FIGS. 19Athrough 19I may operate in a similar manner to the exemplary toolassembly 184 described above with reference to FIG. 16A through 16E. Forexample, the exemplary tool assembly 184, as is shown in FIG. 19A,includes a first extension tool 100A movable between a slacked positionand a tensioned position (shown). The first extension tool 100A,although depicted in a simplified and schematic manner, may include afirst plurality of sequentially arranged links 106A. The first pluralityof sequentially arranged links 106A of the first extension tool 100Adefine a predetermined shape when in the tensioned position (shown inFIG. 19A).

Referring to FIG. 19B, the tool assembly 184 further includes a secondextension tool 100B. The second extension tool 100B may similarlyinclude a second plurality of sequentially arranged links 106B movablebetween a slacked position and a tensioned position (shown). The secondplurality of sequentially arranged links 106B are movable over orthrough the first plurality of sequentially arranged links 106A, andmore specifically, are movable through the first plurality ofsequentially arranged links 106A. In such a manner, the second pluralityof sequentially arranged links 106B may define a second outer diameter129B that is less than a first inner diameter 127A of a first hollowtube 126A of the first plurality of links 106A.

Notably, the second extension tool 100B may be configured in a similarmanner to the extension tool 100 of FIGS. 17 and 18 . Accordingly, whilethe second extension tool 100B may not define a predetermined shape whenin the tensioned position, it may take the shape of the first hollowtube 126A of the first extension tool 100A.

Therefore, the second extension tool 100B may be inserted through thefirst hollow tube 126A of the first plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks 106A of the first extension tool 100A such that a second distalend 122B of the second extension tool 100B is positioned adjacent to afirst distal end 122A of the first extension tool 100A. The secondextension tool 100B may then be moved to the tensioned position,retaining the shape of the first extension tool 100A, and the firstextension tool 100A may then be removed. Such is depicted in FIG. 19C.

Thereafter, referring to FIG. 19D, a third extension tool 100C of thetool assembly 184 may be moved over the second extension tool 100B(i.e., while in the slacked position). The third extension tool 100C maybe configured in a similar manner as the first extension tool 100A(i.e., defining a third hollow tube 126C defining a third inner diameter127C substantially equal to the first inner diameter 126A), but maydefine a greater overall length. In such a manner, the second extensiontool 100B may guide the third extension tool 100C through theenvironment at least to the second distal end 122B of the secondextension tool 100B. The third plurality of links 106C may then extendfurther into the environment and the third extension tool 100C may thenbe moved to the tensioned position. Referring now also to FIG. 19E, thesecond extension tool 100B may thereafter be moved back to the slackedposition and be removed from within the third extension tool 100C andfrom the environment. A third distal end 122C of the third extensiontool 100C may be at a desired position and orientation within theenvironment. Accordingly, the exemplary tool assembly 184 may facilitateinspection, repair, or maintenance operations at a location within theenvironment proximate the third distal end 122C.

However, in still other embodiments, the tool assembly 184 may includefurther extension tools to reach further, more remote locations withinthe environment. For example, referring to FIGS. 19F through 19I, thetool assembly 184 may further include a fourth extension tool 100D(configured in a similar manner to the second extension tool 100B, butdefining a greater overall length, or more particular, defining anoverall length is substantially equal to an overall length of the thirdextension tool 100C) and a fifth extension tool 100E (configured in amanner similar to the first extension tool 100A and third extension tool100C, but defining a greater overall length than each of the firstextension tool 100A and the third extension tool 100C).

For example, as illustrated in FIG. 19F, during operation of theexemplary tool assembly 184, the fourth extension tool 100D may beinserted through the third extension tool 100C while in a slackedposition. The fourth extension tool 100D may then be moved to thetensioned position, whereby the fourth extension tool 100 retains theshape of the third extension tool 100C. As illustrated in FIG. 19G, thethird extension tool 100C may then be moved to the slacked position andremoved from within the environment. Further, as illustrated in FIG.19H, the fifth extension tool 100E may be moved over the fourthextension tool 100 while in a slacked position. The fifth extension tool100E may then be moved to the tensioned position. Referring to FIG. 19I,the fourth extension tool 100D may be moved back to the slacked positionand removed from within the fifth extension tool 100E. A fifth distalend 122E of the fifth extension tool 100E is positioned at a desiredposition and/or orientation within the environment to facilitate, e.g.,inspection, repair, and/or maintenance of one or more components withinthe environment proximate the fifth distal end 122E.

Further, referring now to FIG. 20 , one exemplary application of thevarious extension tools 100 and/or tool assemblies 184 of the presentdisclosure will be described. Notably, although described as a toolassembly 184 in FIG. 20 , it will be appreciated that in certainembodiments an individual extension tool 100/selectively flexible toolmay be used. Specifically, FIG. 20 depicts a tool assembly 184 inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure beingutilized to navigate through a nonlinear path within an environment,which for the embodiment shown is a gas turbine engine 200.

Specifically, for the embodiment of FIG. 20 , the gas turbine engine 200is configured as a turbofan engine. The turbofan engine generallyincludes a fan section 204 and a turbomachine 206.

The turbomachine 206 generally includes a compressor section having alow pressure (“LP”) compressor 208 and a high pressure (“HP”) compressor210; a combustion section 212; a turbine section including an HPcompressor 214 and an LP compressor 216; and an exhaust section (notshown). The compressor section, combustion section 212, turbine section,and exhaust section are each arranged in serial flow order. The LPcompressor 208 and LP turbine 216 are coupled through an LP shaft 218,and similarly, the HP compressor 210 and HP turbine 214 are coupled toan HP shaft 220. Additionally, the turbomachine 26 includes a casing 221enclosing at least in part the above-noted components of theturbomachine 206. Further, for the embodiment shown the fan section 204includes a fan having a plurality of fan blades 222, with the fan andplurality of fan blades 222 being driven by the LP shaft 218.

In the callout Circle A, a close-up, schematic view of a compressor ofthe compressor section of the turbomachine 206 is depicted, and morespecifically, a close-up, schematic view of the HP compressor 210 isdepicted. As shown, the HP compressor 210 includes a plurality ofrotating compressor rotor blades 224 (which may be coupled to, anddriven by, the HP shaft 220) and a plurality of stationary guide vanes226 positioned at least partially within a flowpath liner 225. For theembodiment shown, a radially inner end of one of the rotating compressorrotor blades 224 includes a fastener 228, which may be a bolt, screw,etc., such as a locking lug. As part of a maintenance or repairoperation of the gas turbine engine 200, it may be necessary to tightenor loosen the fastener 228.

Referring still to FIG. 20 , the exemplary liner 225 defines an opening230, which may be a borescope opening. Given the proximity of thefastener 228, it will be extremely difficult to effectively tighten orloosen the fastener 228 through the opening 230 in the liner 225 usingtraditional tools. However, utilizing the tool assembly 184, a nonlinearpath may be defined by one or more extension tools 100 to facilitateinspection, repair, or maintenance operations at the remote location ofthe faster 228. For example, a plurality of sequentially arranged links106 of an extension tool 100 may be inserted through the opening 230 ina slacked position, and moved to the tensioned position using a lineassembly 104. Once in the tensioned position and within the environment,or rather, within the liner 225 of the turbomachine 206, a guide tube126 defined by the links 106 may allow for insertion of a flexible tool232 (e.g., screwdriver, Torx wrench, Allen bit, etc.) which may be usedto tighten or loosen the fastener 228 (see, e.g., FIGS. 1 through 12 ).Additionally, or alternatively, a multitude of pluralities of links 106may be provided with the extension tool 100 (see, e.g., FIGS. 13 through15 ), the tool assembly 184 may include multiple extension tools 100(see, e.g., FIGS. 16 through 19 ), or both. Such may facilitate theinspection, repair, and/or maintenance action on the gas turbine engine200 without removal of the liner 225 of the turbomachine 206.

Notably, the exemplary environment depicted in FIG. 20 is provided byway of example only. In other embodiments, the tool assembly 184 may beutilized to perform actions within any other suitable environment, suchas other suitable locations within a gas turbine engine, other suitableengines, hazardous environments, complex machines, etc.

Referring now to FIG. 21 , a method 300 is provided for operating aselectively flexible extension tool within an environment defining anonlinear path. The method may utilize one or more of the exemplaryselectively flexible extension tools described above with reference toFIGS. 1 through 10 . However, in other embodiments, any other suitableselectively flexible extension tool may be utilized.

The method 300 generally includes at (302) inserting a plurality ofsequentially arranged links of the selectively flexible extension toolat least partially into the nonlinear path of the environment while theplurality of sequentially arranged links of the selectively flexibleextension tool are in a slacked position.

The method 300 further includes at (304) tensioning a line assemblyoperable with the plurality of sequentially arranged links to rigidizethe plurality of sequentially arranged links to move the plurality ofsequentially arranged links to a tensioned position. For example, incertain exemplary aspects, tensioning the line assembly at (304) mayinclude at (306) tensioning a plurality of lines of the line assembly,e.g., in unison.

Moreover, the exemplary method 300 includes at (308) inserting a toolimplement through a guide tube defined by the plurality of sequentiallyarranged links in the tensioned position to access the environment.Inserting the tool implement through the guide tube defined by theplurality of sequentially arranged links at (308) may include performinga maintenance operation or a repair operation on a component within theenvironment using the tool implement.

More specifically, for the exemplary aspect depicted in FIG. 21 , theplurality of sequentially arranged links of the extension tool is afirst plurality of sequentially arranged links and the extension toolfurther includes a second plurality of sequentially arranged links. Aswith the first plurality of links, the second plurality of links ismovable between a slacked position and a tensioned position. Further,the second plurality of links is movable between a retracted positionwherein the second plurality of links is substantially nested within thefirst plurality of links, and an extended position wherein the secondplurality of links is substantially extended from the first plurality oflinks. In the context of the retracted and extended position, the term“substantially” refers to more than half of the links.

As such, it will be appreciated that inserting the plurality of links at(302) includes at (310) inserting the first plurality of sequentiallyarranged links into the nonlinear path of the environment while thesecond plurality of sequentially arranged links is in the retractedposition and slacked position. For the exemplary method 300 depicted,tensioning the line of the line assembly at (304) includes at (312)tensioning a first line of the line assembly and the method 300 furtherincludes at (314) moving the second plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks to the extended position subsequent to tensioning the first lineof the line assembly at (312). At such a stage, the first plurality ofsequentially arranged links are inserted into the environment and are inthe tensioned position. The second plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks have been extended from the first plurality of sequentiallyarranged links and may be in the slacked position to facilitate furtherinsertion of the second plurality of links in or through a nonlinearpath within the environment and/or the extension tube of the firstplurality of links.

Referring still to FIG. 21 , the method 300 further includes at (316)tensioning a second line of the line assembly operable with the secondplurality of sequentially arranged links to move the second plurality ofsequentially arranged links to a tensioned position to rigidly fix thesecond plurality of sequentially arranged links to one another. In sucha manner, it will be appreciated that tensioning the second line of theline assembly at (316) may include at (318) tensioning the second lineof the line assembly independently from the tensioning of the first lineof the line assembly at (312).

Notably, although the exemplary method 300 depicted in FIG. 21 isdiscussed as being operable with an extension tool including twopluralities of sequentially arranged links, in other exemplary aspects,the method 300 may be utilized with an extension tool including three ormore pluralities or a single plurality of sequentially arranged links(see, e.g., FIGS. 1 through 6 ). Further, although the exemplary method300 depicted in FIG. 21 is discussed as being operable with an extensiontool including nested pluralities of sequentially arranged links, instill other exemplary aspects, the method 300 may be utilized with anextension tool including pluralities of sequentially arranged linksarranged, e.g. in series. With such an exemplary aspect, an aft end of asecond plurality of sequentially arranged links may be coupled to aforward end of a first plurality of sequentially arranged links (see,e.g., FIG. 15 ).

It will be appreciated, however, that in still other exemplary aspectsof the present disclosure, other methods may be utilized to operatevarious tool assemblies in accordance with various exemplary aspects ofthe present disclosure. For example, referring now to FIG. 22 , a method400 is provided for operating a tool assembly within an environment inaccordance with an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure. Theexemplary tool assembly may be configured in a manner similar to one ormore of the embodiments described above with reference to FIGS. 16through 20 . However, in other embodiments, the tool assembly operatedthrough the method 400 may be configured in accordance with any othersuitable exemplary embodiment.

The method 400 includes at (402) inserting a first selectively flexibletool into the environment while the first selectively flexible tool isin a slacked position. More specifically, inserting the firstselectively flexible tool into the environment at (402) includes at(404) inserting a first plurality of links of the first selectivelyflexible tool while the first plurality of links is in a slackedposition.

The method 400 further includes at (406) moving the first selectivelyflexible tool to a tensioned position. More specifically, moving thefirst selectively flexible tool to the tensioned position at (406)includes at (408) moving the plurality of links of the first selectivelyflexible tool to the tensioned position, and although not depicted mayfurther include moving the plurality of links of the first selectivelyflexible tool to the tensioned position using a line assembly of thefirst selectively flexible tool.

Additionally, the method 400 includes at (410) positioning a secondselectively flexible tool at least partially over or through the firstselectively flexible tool while the second selectively flexible tool isin a slacked position, and at (412) moving the second selectivelyflexible tool to a tensioned position. Accordingly, it will beappreciated that in at least certain exemplary aspects, positioning thesecond selectively flexible tool at least partially over or through thefirst selectively flexible tool at (410) may include at (414)positioning the second selectively flexible tool at least partiallythrough a hollow tube of the first plurality of links of the firstselectively flexible tool. However, in other exemplary aspects,positioning the second selectively flexible tool at least partially overor through the first selectively flexible tool at (410) may include at(416) positioning the second selectively flexible tool at leastpartially over the first plurality of links of the first selectivelyflexible tool, such that the first plurality of links of the firstselectively flexible tool are positioned within a second hollow tube ofthe second selectively flexible tool.

Referring still to the exemplary aspect depicted in FIG. 22 , it will beappreciated that the exemplary method 400 further includes at (418)moving the first selectively flexible tool to the slacked positionsubsequent to moving the second selectively flexible tool to thetensioned position at (412), and further includes at (420) removing thefirst selectively flexible tool from the environment. Moreover, it willbe appreciated that at least certain exemplary aspects of the presentdisclosure may utilize additional selectively flexible tools to allowthe tool assembly to reach more remote locations within the environment.Accordingly, the exemplary aspect of the method 400 depicted in FIG. 22further includes at (422) positioning a third selectively flexible toolat least partially over or through the second selectively flexible toolwhile the third selectively flexible tool is in a slacked position, andat (424) moving the third selectively flexible tool to a tensionedposition. Further, still, the exemplary method 400 includes at (426)moving the second selectively flexible tool to the slacked positionsubsequent to moving the third selectively flexible tool to thetensioned position at (424), and (428) removing the second selectivelyflexible tool from within the environment.

Although not depicted, additional selectively flexible tools may beutilized in additional exemplary aspects of the present disclosure.Alternatively, the method 400 may utilize less selectively flexibletools.

Further aspects of the invention are provided by the subject matter ofthe following clauses:

A tool assembly including: a first selectively flexible tool comprisinga first plurality of sequentially arranged links moveable between aslacked position and a tensioned position; and a second selectivelyflexible tool comprising a second plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks moveable between a slacked position and a tensioned position, thesecond plurality of sequentially arranged links moveable over or throughthe first plurality of sequentially arranged links.

The tool assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the first selectivelyflexible tool defines a first outer diameter, wherein the secondplurality of sequentially arranged links of the second selectivelyflexible tool define a second hollow tube defining a second innerdiameter, wherein the first outer diameter of the first selectivelyflexible tool is less than the second inner diameter of the secondhollow tube of the second plurality of sequentially arranged links suchthat the second plurality of sequentially arranged links of the secondselectively flexible tool are moveable over the first plurality ofsequentially arranged links of the first selectively flexible tool.

The tool assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the first pluralityof sequentially arranged links of the first selectively flexible toolare spaced from one another when in the slacked position to allow theplurality of sequentially arranged links to pivotably move relative toone another, and wherein the plurality of sequentially arranged linksare pressed against one another when in the tensioned position torigidly fix the first plurality of sequentially arranged links to oneanother.

The tool assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the first selectivelyflexible tool further comprises a line operable with the first pluralityof sequentially arranged links to move the first plurality ofsequentially arranged links between a slacked position and a tensionedposition.

The tool assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the second pluralityof sequentially arranged links of the second selectively flexible toolcomprises a plurality of joint members and a plurality of link members,wherein each joint member is positioned between adjacent link members.

The tool assembly of any preceding clause, wherein each of the pluralityof joint members defines a first longitudinal opening, wherein each ofthe plurality of link members defines a second longitudinal opening, andwherein the second selectively flexible tool further comprises a lineassembly extending through the first longitudinal opening of each jointmember of the plurality of joint members and further extending throughthe second longitudinal opening of each link member of the plurality oflink members.

The tool assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the firstlongitudinal opening of each joint member extends through a joint membercenterline of the respective joint member, and wherein the secondlongitudinal opening of each link member extends through a link membercenterline of the respective link member.

The tool assembly of any preceding clause, wherein each of the pluralityof joint members extends between a first end and a second end, andwherein the first end and second end of each joint member defines aconvex surface.

The tool assembly of any preceding clause, wherein each link member ofthe plurality of link members extends between a first end and a secondend, and wherein the first end and second end of each link memberdefines a concave opening mateable with a convex surface of an adjacentjoint member.

The tool assembly of any preceding clause, wherein each of the pluralityof joint members defines a substantially spherical shape, and whereineach of the plurality of link members defines a substantiallycylindrical shape.

A method for operating a tool assembly within an environment including:inserting a first selectively flexible tool into the environment whilethe first selectively flexible tool is in a slacked position; moving thefirst selectively flexible tool to a tensioned position; positioning asecond selectively flexible tool at least partially over or through thefirst selectively flexible tool while the second selectively flexibletool is in a slacked position; and moving the second selectivelyflexible tool to a tensioned position.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein inserting the firstselectively flexible tool into the environment comprises inserting afirst plurality of links of the first selectively flexible tool whilethe first plurality of links is in a slacked position, and whereinmoving the first selectively flexible tool to the tensioned positioncomprises moving the first plurality of links of the first selectivelyflexible tool to a tensioned position.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein the first plurality of linksof the first selectively flexible tool define a hollow tube extendingtherethrough when in the tensioned position, and wherein positioning thesecond selectively flexible tool at least partially over or through thefirst selectively flexible tool comprises positioning the secondselectively flexible tool at least partially through the hollow tube ofthe first plurality of links of the first selectively flexible tool.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein positioning the secondselectively flexible tool at least partially over or through the firstselectively flexible tool while the second selectively flexible tool isin the slacked position comprises positioning a distal end of the secondselectively flexible tool proximate a distal end of the firstselectively flexible tool.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein positioning the secondselectively flexible tool at least partially over or through the firstselectively flexible tool while the second selectively flexible tool isin the slacked position comprises positioning the second selectivelyflexible tool at least partially over the first selectively flexibletool.

The method of any preceding clause, further including: moving the firstselectively flexible tool to slacked position subsequent to moving thesecond selectively flexible tool to the tensioned position; and removingthe first selectively flexible tool from the environment.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein further comprising:positioning a third selectively flexible tool at least partially over orthrough the second selectively flexible tool while the third selectivelyflexible tool is in a slacked position; and moving the third selectivelyflexible tool to a tensioned position.

The method of any preceding clause, further comprising: moving thesecond selectively flexible tool to the slacked position subsequent tomoving the third selectively flexible tool to the tensioned position;and removing the second selectively flexible tool from the environment.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein the first selectivelyflexible tool defines a first outer diameter, wherein the thirdselectively flexible tool defines a third outer diameter, and whereinthe third outer diameter is substantially equal to the first outerdiameter.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein the second selectivelyflexible tool defines a hollow tube defining a second inner diameter,and wherein the second inner diameter is greater than the first outerdiameter and the third outer diameter.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein the first selectivelyflexible tool defines a first hollow tube defining a first innerdiameter, wherein the third selectively flexible tool defines a thirdhollow tube defining a third inner diameter, and wherein the third innerdiameter is substantially equal to the first inner diameter.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein the second selectivelyflexible tool defines a second outer diameter, and wherein the secondouter diameter is less than the first inner diameter and the third innerdiameter.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein the first selectivelyflexible tool comprises a first plurality of sequentially arranged linksmovable between a slacked position when the first selectively flexibletool as in the slacked position and a tensioned position when the firstselectively flexible tool is in the tensioned position.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein the second selectivelyflexible tool comprises a second plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks movable between a slacked position when the second selectivelyflexible tool is in the slacked position and a tensioned position whenthe second selectively flexible tool is in the tensioned position.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein the second selectivelyflexible tool comprises a plurality of joint members, a plurality oflink members, and a line assembly, wherein each joint member ispositioned between adjacent link members and defines a firstlongitudinal opening, wherein each of the plurality of link membersdefines a second longitudinal opening, and wherein the line assemblyextends through the first longitudinal opening of each joint member ofthe plurality of joint members and further extends through the secondlongitudinal opening of each link member of the plurality of linkmembers.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein the environment is aninterior of a gas turbine engine.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein inserting the firstselectively flexible tool into the environment while the firstselectively flexible tool is in the slacked position comprises insertingthe first selectively flexible tool into the gas turbine engine throughan opening in the gas turbine engine.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein the opening is a borescopeopening.

This written description uses examples to disclose the invention,including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in theart to practice the invention, including making and using any devices orsystems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope ofthe invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examplesthat occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intendedto be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elementsthat do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if theyinclude equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differencesfrom the literal languages of the claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A tool assembly comprising: a first selectivelyflexible tool comprising a first plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks moveable between a slacked position and a tensioned position; anda second selectively flexible tool comprising a second plurality ofsequentially arranged links moveable between a slacked position and atensioned position, the second plurality of sequentially arranged linksmoveable over or through the first plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks, wherein the second plurality of sequentially arranged linksdefine a second overall length that is greater than a first overalllength of the first plurality of sequentially arranged links in thetensioned position.
 2. The tool assembly of claim 1, wherein the firstselectively flexible tool defines a first outer diameter, wherein thesecond plurality of sequentially arranged links of the secondselectively flexible tool define a second hollow tube defining a secondinner diameter, wherein the first outer diameter of the firstselectively flexible tool is less than the second inner diameter of thesecond hollow tube of the second plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks such that the second plurality of sequentially arranged links ofthe second selectively flexible tool are moveable over the firstplurality of sequentially arranged links of the first selectivelyflexible tool.
 3. A tool assembly comprising: a first selectivelyflexible tool comprising a first plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks moveable between a slacked position and a tensioned position; anda second selectively flexible tool comprising a second plurality ofsequentially arranged links moveable between a slacked position and atensioned position, the second plurality of sequentially arranged linksmoveable over or through the first plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks, wherein the first plurality of sequentially arranged links of thefirst selectively flexible tool are spaced from one another when in theslacked position to allow the first plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks to pivotably move relative to one another, and wherein the firstplurality of sequentially arranged links are pressed against one anotherwhen in the tensioned position to rigidly fix the first plurality ofsequentially arranged links to one another.
 4. The tool assembly ofclaim 1, wherein the first selectively flexible tool further comprises aline operable with the first plurality of sequentially arranged links tomove the first plurality of sequentially arranged links between aslacked position and a tensioned position.
 5. The tool assembly of claim1, wherein the second plurality of sequentially arranged links of thesecond selectively flexible tool comprises a plurality of joint membersand a plurality of link members, wherein each joint member is positionedbetween adjacent link members.
 6. The tool assembly of claim 5, whereineach of the plurality of joint members defines a first longitudinalopening, wherein each of the plurality of link members defines a secondlongitudinal opening, and wherein the second selectively flexible toolfurther comprises a line assembly extending through the firstlongitudinal opening of each joint member of the plurality of jointmembers and further extending through the second longitudinal opening ofeach link member of the plurality of link members.
 7. The tool assemblyof claim 6, wherein the first longitudinal opening of each joint memberextends through a joint member centerline of the respective jointmember, and wherein the second longitudinal opening of each link memberextends through a link member centerline of the respective link member.8. The tool assembly of claim 5, wherein each of the plurality of jointmembers extends between a first end and a second end, and wherein thefirst end and the second end of each joint member defines a convexsurface.
 9. The tool assembly of claim 8, wherein each link member ofthe plurality of link members extends between a first end and a secondend, and wherein the first end and the second end of each link memberdefines a concave opening mateable with a convex surface of an adjacentjoint member.
 10. A tool assembly comprising: a first selectivelyflexible tool comprising a first plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks moveable between a slacked position and a tensioned position; anda second selectively flexible tool comprising a second plurality ofsequentially arranged links moveable between a slacked position and atensioned position, the second plurality of sequentially arranged linksmoveable over or through the first plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks, wherein the second plurality of sequentially arranged links ofthe second selectively flexible tool comprises a plurality of jointmembers and a plurality of link members, wherein each joint member ispositioned between adjacent link members, wherein each of the pluralityof joint members extends between a first end and a second end, andwherein the first end and the second end of each joint member defines aconvex surface, wherein each of the plurality of joint members defines asubstantially spherical shape, and wherein each of the plurality of linkmembers defines a substantially cylindrical shape.
 11. The tool assemblyof claim 1, wherein the first selectively flexible tool defines apredefined shape in the tensioned position such that the firstselectively flexible tool is positioned at a desired orientation. 12.The tool assembly of claim 1, wherein the second overall length is atleast about 25 percent greater than the first overall length.
 13. Thetool assembly of claim 1, further comprising: a third selectivelyflexible tool comprising a third plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks moveable between a slacked position and a tensioned position. 14.The tool assembly of claim 13, wherein the third selectively flexibletool is moveable over or through the second selectively flexible tool inthe slacked position.
 15. The tool assembly of claim 13, wherein thefirst selectively flexible tool defines a first outer diameter, whereinthe third selectively flexible tool defines a third outer diameter, andwherein the third outer diameter is substantially equal to the firstouter diameter.
 16. The tool assembly of claim 15, wherein the secondselectively flexible tool defines a second hollow tube defining a secondinner diameter, and wherein the second inner diameter is greater thanthe first outer diameter and the third outer diameter.
 17. The toolassembly of claim 16, wherein the first selectively flexible tooldefines a first hollow tube defining a first inner diameter, wherein thethird selectively flexible tool defines a third hollow tube defining athird inner diameter, and wherein the third inner diameter issubstantially equal to the first inner diameter.
 18. The tool assemblyof claim 17, wherein the second selectively flexible tool defines asecond outer diameter, and wherein the second outer diameter is lessthan the first inner diameter and the third inner diameter.
 19. The toolassembly of claim 13, wherein the third plurality of sequentiallyarranged links defines a third overall length that is greater than asecond overall length of the second plurality of sequentially arrangedlinks.